Love rains, but hate seepage? Expert tips to prevent dampness in homes

Monsoon rains and Mumbai share a bittersweet relationship Pitterpatter drops the rain washing away the scorching hues of summer However the respite it serves gets negated by the cityrsquos worst nightmare humidity According to Indian Meteorological Department it is peaking at 91 per cent today and the time is ripe to gear up for the havoc it will wreakHigh moisture levels harbour dampness to the remotest corner of homes It poses a potential challenge to interiors attracts pests invites skin rashes and also damages the steel fittings in the building structure Excessive moisture in the air can also induce a lackluster appearance facilitate staining and even promote mould growthMidday Online reached out to stone and fenestration doors and windows experts who share ways to tackle dampness during monsoon The experts lay down a comprehensive guide for failsafe care and maintenance to prevent dampness from ruining valued interiorsEssential tips to safeguard doors and windows from dampnessTaking care of doors and windows during the rainy season is essential to ensure their longevity functionality and aesthetic appeal shares Nitin Mehta director ALCO He lists down 7 valuable tips that can protect doors and windows from the woes of dampnessSeal out the rainWeatherstripping the process of sealing openings is essential for preventing water leakage and maintaining energy efficiency in doors and windows Before the monsoon season begins inspect the weatherstripping around your doors and windows Damaged weatherstripping can compromise the seal allowing rainwater to seep inPromptly replace any weatherstripping that shows signs of damage to ensure a tight seal and prevent water infiltration This small but essential step can go a long way in protecting your interiors from water damageLubricate hardware componentsLubricate hardware components of doors and windows such as hinges handles and locks regularly for smooth operation during the monsoon season The increased moisture levels can cause rust corrosion and stiffness in these moving parts To prevent such issues use a specialised door and window lubricant to apply a thin coat on the moving componentsThis will help maintain their functionality and extend their lifespan Regular lubrication prevents damage and facilitates smooth and effortless door and window accessMaintain proper drainageProper drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation and potential damage to doors and windows Clear debris or blockages from drainage channels weep holes and tracks Ensure that water can flow freely and that no obstructions hinder the drainage system Adequate drainage prevents water from seeping into unwanted areas and helps maintain the structural integrity of your doors and windowsProtecting aluminium surfacesDuring the monsoon season it is crucial to take proactive measures to protect your aluminium doors and windows from moisture damage Applying a suitable protective coating designed for aluminium surfaces is essential This coating acts as a barrier preventing moisture from seeping into the metal and causing damageRegular inspections should also be conducted to identify scratches dents or chips that may compromise the protective coating Prompt repairs should be made to maintain the integrity of the surfacesAddressing CondensationCondensation occurs commonly during the monsoon season particularly on glass surfaces Excessive condensation can lead to mould and mildew growth affecting both the appearance and indoor air quality Ensure proper ventilation in your living spaces by using exhaust fans or opening windows for short periods to allow fresh air circulationAdditionally using dehumidifiers or moistureabsorbing products can help reduce excess moisture in the air Wipe off any condensation on windows and glass surfaces to prevent waterrelated issues and maintain a dry and comfortable environmentHandle with careHumidity levels during the monsoon season can cause materials including doors and windows to expand and contract To prevent damage to these components avoid slamming them shut The forceful impact can place unnecessary stress on the frames hinges and glass panels leading to cracks misalignment or breakage Instead close doors and windows gently and securely to minimise stress and ensure longevityProactive protectionRegular inspections are crucial for identifying any damage or wear and tear signs As the monsoon progresses check the condition of the frames glass hardware and seals periodically Look for cracks gaps or any loose components Promptly address any issues you notice by contacting a professional fenestration service provider for repairs or replacementsProactive inspections and timely repairs can prevent further damage and prolong the lifespan of your doors and windowsEssential tips to safeguard stone and marble interiors from dampnessldquoItrsquos critical to emphasise the indispensability of meticulous care and maintenance for natural stone and marble during the monsoon seasonrdquo shares Rajesh Bhandari director of AClass Marble He lists down 5 easy ways to ensure longevity of stones and marble against monsoon dampnessImpeccable Cleaning and Gentle DustingA meticulous cleaning regimen is at the core of preserving the lustre and sheen of natural stones and marble During the monsoon season it becomes imperative to eradicate dirt dust and debris from these surfaces Utilise only soft microfiber cloths or mops for daily dusting and avoid abrasive or acidic cleanersOpting for pHneutral cleaners specifically formulated for the delicate nature of natural stones and marble will go a long way Dilute the cleaner as directed by the manufacturer then meticulously wipe the surfaces rinse thoroughly with clean water and diligently dry themSealing and Impenetrable WaterproofingThe prudent application of sealants to natural stones and marble forms a vital defence against moisturerelated damage Before the advent of the monsoon season conduct a thorough assessment of your surfaces to ascertain the need for resealing Carefully select highndashquality penetrating stone sealers suitable for the specific stone type present in your homeAfter application one must allow ample drying time before exposing the surfaces to water or foot traffic It is important to note that sealing should extend beyond the uppermost layer to include the edges and undersides of the stones ensuring comprehensive protection In addition focus on areas prone to water exposure such as bathroom countertops shower walls and kitchen backsplashes Apply a waterproofing agent or siliconebased sealant to these surfaces effectively impeding water infiltrationOptimal Ventilation and Humidity ControlMaintaining proper ventilation and precise humidity levels within your home is paramount in safeguarding natural stones and marble during the monsoon Promote adequate airflow by opening windows and utilising exhaust fans in moistureprone areas such as bathrooms and kitchens This simple measure aids in reducing condensation and impeding the accumulation of moistureConsider implementing dehumidifiers or air conditioners to maintain indoor humidity levels within the optimal range These appliances effectively extract excess moisture from the atmosphere guarding against potential damage to the natural stones and marblePrevention of Unsightly StainsThe monsoon season often heightens concerns regarding stains Swiftly addressing spills and preventing their absorption into natural stones or marble significantly mitigates longterm damage Promptly blot liquid spills with soft absorbent cloths or paper towels exercising care to avoid rubbing which may exacerbate the spread of the stainFor persistent stains consider utilising a mild poultice composed of baking soda or an industryspecific application formulated for natural stones Apply and cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to remain for the designated period before rinsing and meticulously drying the area To minimise the risk of staining use coasters trays and placemats beneath glasses bottles or any other items that might contain liquids Furthermore refrain from placing hot objects directly on the natural stone surfaces to circumvent discolouration caused by heat exposureRegular Inspections and Professional MaintenanceRoutine inspections constitute a fundamental aspect of responsible natural stone and marble care both preceding and during the monsoon season Diligently scrutinise the surfaces for cracks chips or any signs of loose tiles as these issues may exacerbate in the presence of increased moisture Should you detect any significant damage or structural concerns promptly seek professional assistanceAccomplished stone restoration specialists possess the requisite expertise to assess the situation accurately and deliver the required repairs or treatments necessary to restore the pristine beauty and structural integrity of your natural stone and marble surfaces